Peninsula explosion burn victim identified

Friends and family of burn victim David Beavers are trying to raise money to assist in his recovery after a propane tank exploded in his face June 2. Photo submitted

Samantha P. HawthorneStaff Writer

6/20/2014

To many who have come to know his story, Ferrellgas service technician David Beavers is a hero. A routine tank exchange June 2 on Peninsula Drive left Beavers with second- and third-degree burns all over his body — the replacement tank exploded while he was making the exchange. Despite this, he risked further injury by trying to stop the tank from causing additional damage, and helping the family escape without injury.

According to Peninsula Fire Protection District’s assistant chief, Bob Phillips, the young man called out to homeowners Mike and Diane Moe to “get out of the house and away from the scene.” Thanks to his fast reflexes, the family and their pets got out safely.

Due to the extent of his injuries, Beavers was airlifted to the UC Davis Medical Center, where he has since been on the “long road to recovery.”

To help cover his medical expenses, a burn recovery fund has been set up in his name to raise $10,000 by the end of September. At the time of this writing, 17 people have donated to the cause; together they have raised $1,650.

Donations can be made securely via debit or credit card at tinyurl.com/davidbeaversburnrecoveryfund. In order for Beavers to get 100 percent of the money raised, an optional 7.9 percent plus 50 cent transaction fee can be added to each individual donation.